Injection heroin use and other opioids is a public health crisis that's associated with a rise in accidental overdose death, and infections from HIV and HepC as a result from injection drug users sharing needles. The opioid use epidemic is fueling an outbreak of HepC , primarily among folks under the age of 30. About 32% of people who inject drugs become infected with HepC within the first year of injecting, and 53% become infected within 5 years. Since 2009, there has been a 300% increase in HepC infections among those 30 years of age or less.
Research has shown that SSP reduce infection rates and provide a safe space for people to make positive steps towards their own health outcomes, without increased drug use. SSP's save lives.
"Syringe exchange programs." Centers for Disease Control

What is Harm Reduction?

Harm reduction programs work with populations by offering strategies to reduce substance misuse. These strategies include outreach and education programs, SSPs, overdose prevention education, and access to naloxone to reverse potentially lethal opioid overdose. Harm reduction aims to reduce risks while still using substances, and encourage individuals to seek treatment to reduce, manage, and stop their substance use.